Start with your situation
Describe what you need help with in a sentence or two. Ask whether the team regularly handles similar work and who would be looking after you.
- Does this office offer the service you need?
- Who would be your day-to-day contact?
- Can the firm take on your work within the time you have?
- Can you speak by phone or online, or would you need to visit?
Compare costs and communication
Ask each firm the same questions so you can compare their answers. A written quote is easier to check than a figure mentioned in passing.
- What does the fee include?
- What might cost extra?
- How and when will you receive updates?
- How quickly can you expect a reply to a question?
- Can the firm provide any language or accessibility support you need?
Keep a few notes after each conversation. Include whether the answers were clear and whether you felt comfortable asking questions.
Check the firm’s details
Use the official SRA Register to check the firm’s name, registration number and contact details. You can also check an individual solicitor there. If something does not match, speak to the firm using contact details you have checked independently.
Before you ask the firm to act for you
Read the written information about the work, costs and terms. This is often called a client-care letter. Ask about anything you do not understand before agreeing.
If you have an approaching deadline, mention it early so the firm can tell you whether it can help in time.